Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

Impact through design is always important for Chewning, especially when it comes to recovering and updating old chairs. As he explains of his latest creation, “I wanted to use a graphic pattern that would be balanced by the smoothness of the velvet on the seat side, creating intrigue as you move around the chair.”

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Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

Lisa Cohen, DuJour home editor

Antique gilt-trimmed chair with Stark “Camelos” Leather

As a collector, Cohen has an eye for decorative, statement-making pieces. Favoring a Newel Gallery antique gilt-trimmed chair updated with a striking look, Cohen elaborates on her passion for reupholstery: “I love the juxtaposition of a traditional chair with a combination of modern fabrics,” she says. “Now the piece speaks to me!”

Tags:

Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

As with fashion, sometimes it’s all about the layering. “Upholstering pieces with different fabrics works the same way a man layers clothes,” says Wilcox. “Mixing patterns and textures, like plaids and flannels, adds a touch of creativity to each finished piece.” He adds, “It’s all about getting creative.”

Tags:

Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

On the hunt for a more utilitarian feel, Maggard favors new upholstery that can handle some action. She believes that practicality can exist in these artful pieces. She points out, “This chair is perfect for a bachelor pad or library. The mix of leather and plaid on a mid-century chair creates a contemporary yet classic look.”

Tags:

Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

Holly Hunt, designer

Orielle wing chair with Holly Hunt leather and Great Plains fabric

Speaking of practicality in design, Hunt points out that this Oreille wing chair “can work as an ‘art piece’ and still have a durability advantage with different fabrics, like toned textiles and leathers.” She explains, “Because cushions are easily recovered, using strong fabrics on the body and textiles on the cushions offers depth, contrast and easy change.”

Tags:

Rediscovered: A Masterclass in Upholstery

Traditional aesthetics take a backseat to the contemporary with these newly upholstered chairs, each displaying unexpected fabric pairings. Here, cultivating and curating the trend, six interiors experts weigh in

Photographed by Marc Anthony

Guillaume Gentet, designer

Artistic frame oval dining chair with custom print fabric

Playfulness is apparent in Gentet’s choice. He says, “I love the red paired with black and the oval frame that highlights the portrait.” He adds, “It reminds me of the Campbell’s soup cans Andy Warhol created.” Pushing the boundaries, the designer notes that “it might also be a nice touch to have a personal photo printed on the fabric and framed in the oval as well.”